An instrument is not negotiable unless it is "payable to order or to bearer" at the time it is issued or first comes into the possession of a holder.

Negotiable

Capable of being transferred or converted into goods, services, or money under terms agreeable to the involved parties.

Payable To Order

A clause on a financial document that specifies who can receive the payment, allowing the initial payee to endorse it over to another party.

Payable To Bearer

Payable to bearer describes a financial instrument, such as a check or bond, that is payable to the holder or presenter of the document, rather than a specific individual.